Nashville Arts Commission advances Thrive grant program for neighborhood projects

Nashville's Arts Commission is making significant strides in enhancing community arts funding, as highlighted during the Metro Council Operating Budget Hearings on May 14, 2025. The commission has allocated 40% of its total grants budget to the Thrive program, which focuses on project-based grants for neighborhood-level art initiatives. This funding aims to support diverse arts organizations across the city, with Thrive projects currently benefiting 27 out of 35 districts.

The commission is actively working to ensure that all neighborhoods have access to these resources, seeking to connect with areas that currently lack Thrive projects. In total, 90 arts organizations are funded through various grants, showcasing a broad commitment to fostering the arts in Nashville.

Looking ahead, the commission plans to streamline its grant application process, with new criteria expected to be presented in July. The goal is to distribute funds for the next grant cycle by the end of the calendar year, ensuring timely support for local arts initiatives.

Additionally, the commission is focusing on youth and restorative arts programming. This includes a paid internship program for college students and plans to revive art programming for youth involved in the justice system, which had been on hold.

The meeting also addressed the progress made in response to an audit, with 38% of recommendations either completed or in progress. The commission has implemented changes to improve grant administration and enhance clarity in policies and procedures.

Overall, the Arts Commission's efforts reflect a renewed commitment to supporting Nashville's vibrant arts community, with a focus on inclusivity and timely funding. As the commission continues to navigate challenges and implement improvements, the future looks promising for arts programming throughout the city.